In His Steps: The Power of Prayer
Rev. Mario Aman | Aug. 7, 2024
(Luke 22:39-44) And he came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. 40 And when he came to the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.” 41 And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done” 43 And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. 44 And being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.”
(1Samuel 1:9-18) “One day, after they had finished their meal in the house of the Lord at Shiloh, Hannah got up. She was deeply distressed, and she cried bitterly as she prayed to the Lord. Meanwhile, Eli the priest was sitting in his place by the door. 11Hannah made a solemn promise: “Almighty Lord, look at me, your servant! See my trouble and remember me! Don’t forget me! If you give me a son, I promise that I will dedicate him to you for his whole life and that he will never have his hair cut.” 12Hannah continued to pray to the Lord for a long time, and Eli watched her lips. 13She was praying silently; her lips were moving, but she made no sound. So, Eli thought that she was drunk, 14and said to her, “Stop making a drunken show of yourself! Stop your drinking and sober up!” 15“No, I’m not drunk, sir,” she answered. “I haven’t been drinking! I am desperate, and I have been praying, pouring out my troubles to the Lord. 16Don’t think I am a worthless woman. I have been praying like this because I’m so miserable.” 17“Go in peace,” Eli said, “and may the God of Israel give you what you have asked him for.” 18“May you always think kindly of me”, she replied. Then she went away, ate some food, and was no longer sad.”
CULTIVATING PASSIONATE PRAYER LIFE
1. Passion for a Cause
2. Set Prayer Apart
3. Learn to Withdraw: Find moments of solitude and silence.
4. Have a Posture of Prayer: While physical posture isn’t the essence of fervency, it can help.
5. Pray Scripture
6. Pray Specifically
7. Pray for and with Others